US9180967B2 - Configurable pod structure and store stowage and deployment system and method - Google Patents

Abstract

In one embodiment there is provided a radar signature and induced aerodynamic drag minimizing, externally mountable, internally configurable pod structure optimized for internal placement of one or more deployable stores through configuration and optimal kinematic operation of a pod door assembly. The pod structure has an externally mountable pod housing, a predetermined pod housing cross-sectional configuration optimized to provide a configurable interior volume accommodating multiple different store configurations, and a predetermined pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and an induced aerodynamic drag. The pod structure further has a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and having a plurality of pod doors and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies. The pod structure is optimized in kinematic operational combination of the pod doors and seal door mechanism assemblies controlling ejection launch envelopes.

Description

BACKGROUND

1) Field of the Disclosure

The disclosure relates generally to store stowage and deployment systems and methods, and more particularly, to externally mounted store stowage and deployment systems and methods for use on aerial vehicles, such as stealth and military aircraft.

2) Description of Related Art

Store stowage and deployment systems are commonly used on stealth and military aircraft to carry and release missiles, bombs, and other weapons and materials, generally referred to as “stores”. Such store stowage and deployment systems are typically mounted on an underside of the aircraft, such as on a wing pylon or within a fuselage bay.

A primary mission of stealth aircraft is typically to perform a mission, such as deploying stores, while avoiding a target's sensors, such as radar. Known stealth aircraft exist that internally stow mission stores within the aircraft in order to minimize a radar signature. However, internal carriage of stores occupies valuable aircraft volume and leads to design compromises that may affect the aircraft's performance characteristics. For example, volume reserved for internal stores may displace or reduce space for fuel, engines, avionics, or other subsystems. The design tradeoffs that result may have an impact on the aircraft performance, for example, reduced range, acceleration, and top speed. The resultant payload of the stealth aircraft may be significantly less than comparable external carriage aircraft. The stealth characteristics of an aircraft may only be needed in the presence of air defenses. Once the air defenses are neutralized, internal carriage of stores may no longer be needed and use of the stealth aircraft may be reduced in favor of higher payload, external carriage aircraft. Moreover, known internal stores or weapons bays may require a design as part of a new aircraft as it may be difficult to retrofit such internal stores or weapons bay or carriage onto an existing aircraft.

Known external store carriage systems exist for use with military aerial vehicles, such as combat aircraft, attack helicopters, and the like. However, like radar signature, such known external store carriage systems may create negative effects on the aerodynamic performance of the military aerial vehicles due to increased aerodynamic drag.

Moreover, such known external store carriage systems may be designed for a specific internal store configuration or loadout and changing the desired internal store configuration or loadout means changing to a structurally and/or mechanically different external store carriage system or structure. Finally, the internal configuration and door opening mechanisms of known external store carriage systems may not provide sufficient clearance for a store to be separately ejected without interference from the other stores if a store ejector device fails to deploy a store or there is a some other problem with a store deploying.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for externally mounted, internally configurable store stowage and deployment devices, systems and methods that provide advantages over known devices, systems and methods.

SUMMARY

This need for externally mounted, internally configurable store stowage and deployment devices, systems and methods is satisfied. As discussed in the below detailed description, embodiments of the externally mounted, internally configurable store stowage and deployment devices, systems and methods may provide significant advantages over known devices, systems, and methods.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a radar signature minimizing and induced aerodynamic drag minimizing, externally mountable, internally configurable pod structure optimized for internal placement of one or more deployable stores through configuration and optimal kinematic operation of a pod door assembly. The pod structure comprises an externally mountable pod housing. The pod housing comprises a predetermined pod housing cross-sectional configuration optimized to provide a configurable interior volume accommodating multiple different store configurations. The pod housing further comprises a predetermined pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag. The pod structure further comprises a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and comprising a plurality of pod doors and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies. The pod structure is optimized in kinematic operational combination of the pod doors and seal door mechanism assemblies controlling ejection launch envelopes where the seal door mechanism assemblies operationally linked to the pod doors provide in an open position a clearance independence such that if a store ejector device fails to deploy a deployable store coupled to the store ejector device, no trapped deployable stores occur within the pod structure.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a radar signature minimizing and induced aerodynamic drag minimizing, externally mountable, internally configurable store stowage and deployment system for an aerial vehicle. The system comprises an externally mountable, internally configurable pod structure configured for mounting to an aerial vehicle. The pod structure comprises an externally mountable pod housing. The pod housing comprises a predetermined pod housing cross-sectional configuration optimized to provide a configurable interior volume accommodating multiple different store configurations. The pod housing further comprises a predetermined pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag. The pod structure further comprises a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and comprising a plurality of pod doors and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies. The pod structure is optimized in kinematic operational combination of the pod doors and seal door mechanism assemblies controlling ejection launch envelopes, where the seal door mechanism assemblies operationally linked to the pod doors provide in an open position a clearance independence such that if a store ejector device fails to deploy a deployable store coupled to the store ejector device, no trapped deployable stores occur within the pod structure. The system further comprises a door drive system coupled to the pod structure and configured to drive the pod door assembly. The system further comprises a pneumatic compressor system coupled to the pod structure and configured to deploy one or more deployable stores out of the pod structure. The system further comprises a control system coupled to the pod structure and configured to control operation and deployment of the one or more deployable stores. The system further comprises a power system coupled to the pod structure and configured to provide power to the configurable store stowage and deployment system.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a method for minimizing radar signature and induced aerodynamic drag and for optimizing an interior store volume of an externally mountable store stowage and deployment system on an aerial vehicle. The method comprises providing an externally mountable, internally configurable store stowage and deployment system having a pod structure. The pod structure comprises an externally mountable pod housing. The pod housing comprises a predetermined pod housing cross-sectional configuration optimized to provide a configurable interior volume accommodating multiple different store configurations. The pod housing further comprises a predetermined pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag. The pod structure further comprises a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and comprising a plurality of pod doors and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies. The pod structure is optimized in kinematic operational combination of the pod doors and seal door mechanism assemblies controlling ejection launch envelopes. The method further comprises installing one or more deployable stores and one or more corresponding store ejector devices in the configurable interior volume of the pod housing, where the seal door mechanism assemblies operationally linked to the pod doors provide in an open position a clearance independence such that if one store ejector device fails to deploy a deployable store coupled to the store ejector device, no trapped deployable stores occur within the pod structure. The method further comprises mounting to an exterior portion of an aerial vehicle the store stowage and deployment system with the one or more deployable stores installed in the pod structure.

The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed can be achieved independently in various embodiments of the disclosure or may be combined in yet other embodiments further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate preferred and exemplary embodiments, but which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a front view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure mounted to a centerline pylon on an aerial vehicle;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a perspective view of a pod structure of the disclosure mounted to mid-board pylons on an aerial vehicle;

FIG. 3A is an illustration of a top side perspective view of a pod structure of the disclosure in a closed position;

FIG. 3B is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of the pod structure ofFIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is an illustration of a front side perspective view of the pod structure ofFIG. 3A showing manual access doors and hoist points;

FIG. 3D is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of the pod structure ofFIG. 3B in an open position showing various deployable stores housed within the pod structure;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of a pod structure of the disclosure in an open position with the deployable stores removed and showing various systems;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a front perspective view of a pod structure of the disclosure being jettisoned from an aerial vehicle;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a top side perspective view of a pod structure of the disclosure in a closed position and showing a structural assembly;

FIG. 7A is an illustration of a side view of a pod structure of the disclosure;

FIG. 7B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines7B-7B ofFIG. 7A showing a first embodiment of a store configuration in the configurable interior volume of the pod structure;

FIG. 7C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the store configuration ofFIG. 7B with a pod door assembly in a fully open position;

FIG. 7D is an illustration of a top view of the pod structure ofFIG. 7A showing a store configuration of deployable stores in phantom lines;

FIG. 7E is an illustration of a side view of the pod structure ofFIG. 7D showing the store configuration of deployable stores in phantom lines;

FIG. 8A is an illustration of a side view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure similar to the pod structure ofFIG. 7A;

FIG. 8B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines8B-8B ofFIG. 8A showing a second embodiment of a store configuration in the configurable interior volume of the pod structure;

FIG. 8C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the store configuration ofFIG. 8B with a pod door assembly in a fully open position;

FIG. 8D is an illustration of a top view of the pod structure ofFIG. 8A showing a store configuration of deployable stores in phantom lines;

FIG. 8E is an illustration of a side view of the pod structure ofFIG. 8D showing the store configuration of deployable stores in phantom lines;

FIG. 9A is an illustration of a side view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure similar to the pod structure ofFIGS. 7A and 8A;

FIG. 9B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines9B-9B ofFIG. 9A showing a third embodiment of a store configuration in the configurable interior volume of the pod structure;

FIG. 9C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the third embodiment of the store configuration ofFIG. 9B with a pod door assembly in a fully open position;

FIG. 9D is an illustration of a top view of the pod structure ofFIG. 9A showing a store configuration of deployable stores in phantom lines;

FIG. 9E is an illustration of a side view of the pod structure ofFIG. 9D showing the store configuration of deployable stores in phantom lines;

FIG. 10A is an illustration of a side view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure similar to the pod structure ofFIGS. 7A,8A, and9A;

FIG. 10B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines10B-10B ofFIG. 10A showing a fourth embodiment of a store configuration in the configurable interior volume of the pod structure;

FIG. 10C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the store configuration ofFIG. 10B with a pod door assembly in a fully open position;

FIG. 10D is an illustration of a top view of the pod structure ofFIG. 10A showing a store configuration of a deployable store in phantom lines;

FIG. 10E is an illustration of a side view of the pod structure ofFIG. 10D showing the store configuration of the deployable store in phantom lines;

FIG. 11A is an illustration of the third embodiment of the store configuration ofFIG. 9C with the pod door assembly in an open position and showing a door mounted ejection envelope;

FIG. 11B is an illustration of the third embodiment of the store configuration ofFIG. 11A with the pod door assembly in an open position and showing an upper mounted ejection envelope;

FIG. 12A is an illustration of a front view of an ejection envelope having swaybraces attached to an ejector housing;

FIG. 12B is an illustration of a front view of a constrained release ejection envelope having swaybraces attached to an ejector piston and an ejector housing;

FIG. 12C is an illustration of a front view of an ejection launch envelope overlay used in one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure;

FIG. 13A is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure in an open position and showing locations of seal door mechanism assemblies;

FIG. 13B is an illustration of a close-up front view of one of the embodiments of a seal door mechanism assembly of the disclosure in a fully closed position;

FIG. 13C is an illustration of a close-up front view of the seal door mechanism assembly ofFIG. 13B in a fully open position;

FIGS. 13D-13H are illustrations of front cross-sectional views showing various stages of operation of a seal door mechanism assembly when a pod door assembly is opened;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a side perspective view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure loaded on a movable apparatus in preparation for mounting to a centerline pylon on an aerial vehicle; and,

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all of the disclosed embodiments are shown. Indeed, several different embodiments may be provided and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

Now referring to the Figures, in an embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a pod structure10 (seeFIGS. 3A,5,6B), discussed in further detail below. Thepod structure10 is externally mountable, and is preferably externally mountable to anexterior portion11 of an aerial vehicle12 (seeFIGS. 1A,2A). Thepod structure10 is internally configurable and optimized for internal placement of one or more deployable stores14 (seeFIGS. 1A,2A,3D) through configuration in a configurable interior volume16 (seeFIG. 3D) and through optimal kinematic operation of a pod door assembly18 (seeFIGS. 3D,13A-13C). In another embodiment of the disclosure, thepod structure10 is part of a configurable store stowage and deployment system20 (seeFIG. 4) for anaerial vehicle12. The configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 is discussed in further detail below. The one or moredeployable stores14 may comprise a missile, an aerodynamic missile, an air to air missile, an aerial bomb, an air to ground bomb, an extended range air to ground bomb, a small diameter bomb, miniature aerial vehicle, an unmanned aerial vehicle, a drone, a joint standoff weapon, a joint standoff missile, a micro-satellite, a multi-payload airborne store comprising an expendable electronic counter measure dispenser and a tactical. However, for purposes of this application, the term “store” is a generic term which broadly encompasses any item of cargo which may be carried, released and/or delivered from an aerial vehicle.

Preferably, thepod structure10 is reusable with the sameaerial vehicle12 or a differentaerial vehicle12 after deployment of the one or moredeployable stores14 out of thepod structure10. The endurance life of thepod structure10 may be about 6000 hours and is preferably designed for repeated use.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a front view of one of the embodiments of apod structure10 of the disclosure mounted to anaerial vehicle12, such as, for example, in the form of a twin-engine fighteraerial vehicle12a. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 1, onepod structure10 may be mounted to anexterior portion11 of theaerial vehicle12avia apylon22, such as a centerline pylon22a, on theaerial vehicle12a. As further shown inFIG. 1A, the centerline pylon22ais positioned on afuselage portion24 under theaerial vehicle12a.

In another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 2, twopod structures10 may be mounted to anaerial vehicle12, such as, for example, in the form of a multirole fighteraerial vehicle12b.FIG. 2 is an illustration of a perspective view of thepod structures10 of the disclosure mounted to anexterior portion11 of theaerial vehicle12b. As shown inFIG. 2, eachpod structure10 is mounted to anexterior portion11 of theaerial vehicle12avia apylon22, such as amid-board pylon22b, positioned under each of twowings26 of theaerial vehicle12b. FIG.

FIG. 3A is an illustration of a top side perspective view of one of the embodiments of thepod structure10 of the disclosure in aclosed position28.FIG. 3B is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 3A. As shown inFIGS. 3A-3B, thepod structure10 comprises apod housing30 that is externally mountable, and is preferably externally mountable to anexterior portion11 of an aerial vehicle12 (seeFIGS. 1-2). As shown inFIG. 3A, thepod housing30 has a predeterminedpod housing configuration32, aforward end34, anaft end36, atop portion38, abottom portion40, and sides42a,42b(seeFIG. 3B).

As further shown inFIG. 3A, thepod structure10 comprises one ormore interface elements44, such as in the form oflugs44a,swaybrace pads44b, and anelectrical connector44c, or another suitable interface element. Theinterface elements44 are preferably coupled to or formed in anexterior46 of thepod structure10 on thetop portion38 of thepod structure10 and are configured to interface with an exterior portion11 (seeFIGS. 1-2) of the aerial vehicle12 (seeFIGS. 1-2), such as the pylon(s)22 (seeFIGS. 1-2) of theaerial vehicle12, to aid in external mounting of thepod structure10 to theexterior portion11 of theaerial vehicle12.

As shown inFIG. 3A, thepod structure10 further comprises ajettison element48, such as in the form of apivot post48a, or other suitable jettison element. Thejettison element48 is preferably coupled to theexterior46 of thepod structure10 on thetop portion38 of thepod structure10 toward theaft end36. Thejettison element48 is preferably configured to jettison thepod structure10 from theaerial vehicle12.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a front perspective view of thepod structure10 of the disclosure being jettisoned from anaerial vehicle12a. In certain instances, a given mission may require jettisoning thepod structure10, such as in the case of mechanical or electrical failure or as a result of a stealth mission or other mission requirement. In this event, as shown inFIG. 5, aparent rack184 of theaerial vehicle12 will be commanded to unlock and eject. When thepod structure10 is ejected or jettisoned from theaerial vehicle12a, thepod structure10 disengages from theaerial vehicle12aexcept at thejettison element48 and thepod structure10 pivots downwardly in direction d via thejettison element48 and is then completely released from theaerial vehicle12a. Once thepod structure10 is clear of theaerial vehicle10, the mission may resume.

FIG. 3C is an illustration of a front side perspective view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 3A showingmanual access doors50 on thepod structure10 and hoistpoints52 onside42aof thepod structure10. Similar hoistpoints52 are also present onside42b. Themanual access doors50 may compriseupper access doors50awhich are shown inFIG. 3C in anopen position54. Themanual access doors50 may further comprise manual doordrive access doors50b. Themanual access doors50 allow for manual access into thepod structure10, for example, for manual access in order to install the deployable stores14 (seeFIG. 3D) and store ejector devices56 (seeFIG. 4), such as in the form of store ejector racks56a(seeFIG. 4), into the configurable interior volume16 (seeFIG. 3D) of thepod structure10. The hoist points52 are used to assist in raising, lowering and carrying thepod structure10. Thepod structure10 has the capability to be reconfigured with variousdeployable stores14 andstore ejector devices56, such as in the form of store ejector racks56a, to meet a particular mission objective, such as air patrol or ground target attack.

FIG. 3D is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 3B in anopen position58 showing variousdeployable stores14 housed within thepod structure10. Thepod housing30 comprises a predetermined pod housing cross-sectional configuration60 (seeFIGS. 7B,8B,9B,10B) optimized to provide a configurableinterior volume16 accommodating multiple different store configurations62 (see alsoFIGS. 7B,8B,9B,10B). Thepod housing30 further comprises a predetermined pod housing configuration32 (seeFIG. 3A) having a cross-sectional configuration64 (seeFIG. 7D,8D,9D,10D) optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag. Thepod structure10 which is externally mounted provides a minimized radar signature related to deployable stores guidance system reflectance and a minimized induced aerodynamic drag or parasitic drag related to direct external attachment of deployable stores.

In addition, when thepod structure10 is in the closed position28 (seeFIG. 3A), thepod structure10 has an outer mold line shape (OML)66 (seeFIG. 3A) that is designed to minimize radar signature or radar cross section (RCS) and to minimize induced aerodynamic drag. The shaping of theOML66 of thepod structure10 is specifically designed to decrease its RCS. Additionally, unique radar absorbent coatings (not shown) may be applied to the exterior46 (seeFIG. 3A) of thepod structure10 which may further decrease its RCS.Deployable stores14 carried within thepod structure10 may be shielded from target radar, which, in turn, creates a significant decrease in the aerial vehicle's overall RCS.

TheOML66 of thepod structure10 is further preferably designed to match the induced aerodynamic drag characteristics of a similarly sized known external fuel tank (e.g., 480 gallons).Deployable stores14 carried within thepod structure10 preferably do not affect the aerodynamic performance of theaerial vehicle12. The radar signature, induced aerodynamic drag, and the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod structure10 are preferably balanced to achieve theoptimum OML66 solution. To minimize the size of theOML66, thedeployable stores14 are preferably in a nested configuration67 (seeFIGS. 7B,7E) such that the minimum clearances are to the main bodies19 (seeFIG. 7E) of thedeployable stores14 and not the protruding control surfaces21 (seeFIG. 7E), such as in the form offins21a(seeFIG. 7E).

As shown inFIG. 3D andFIGS. 13A-13C, thepod structure10 further comprises apod door assembly18 integral with thepod housing30 and comprising a plurality ofpod doors68 and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies70 (seeFIGS. 13a,13C). The plurality ofpod doors68 of thepod door assembly18 comprise at least two main doors72 (seeFIG. 3D) and preferably comprise twomain doors72 in the form of right handmain door72a(seeFIG. 3D) and left handmain door72b(seeFIG. 3D).FIG. 3D shows an exterior74bof the left handmain door72b, andFIG. 13A shows an exterior74aof the right handmain door72a. As shown inFIG. 3D, the twomain doors72 open and provide clearance for deployment of thedeployable stores14, for example, door mounteddeployable stores14aand upper mounteddeployable stores14b. The plurality ofpod doors68 of thepod door assembly18 further comprise at least two seal doors76 (seeFIGS. 6,13C), such as in the form of righthand seal door76a(seeFIG. 6) and lefthand seal door76b(seeFIG. 13C). Thepod structure10 is preferably optimized in kinematic operational combination of the plurality ofpod doors68 and the seal door mechanism assemblies70 (seeFIGS. 13B-13C) controlling ejection launch envelopes78 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) of thedeployable stores14 where the sealdoor mechanism assemblies70 operationally linked to the plurality ofpod doors68 provide in a fully open position86 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) a clearance independence82 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) such that if a store ejector device56 (seeFIGS. 4,7B) fails to deploy adeployable store14 coupled to thestore ejector device56, no trappeddeployable stores14 occur within thepod structure10. Preferably, there is aclearance independence82 at a distance of about 1.00 inch between thedeployable stores14 and theOML66.

The OML66 (seeFIG. 3A) of thepod structure10 is preferably shaped to accommodate as many different store configurations62 (seeFIGS. 7B,8B,9B,10B) as possible while still maintaining the clearance independence82 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) to adjacent aircraft surfaces, adjacent deployable stores, take-off/landing groundlines, and other structures. The multiple different store configurations62 (seeFIGS. 7B,8B,9B,10B) comprise one or moredeployable stores14 and one or more corresponding store ejector devices56 (seeFIGS. 4,7B), such as in the form of store ejector racks56a(seeFIGS. 4,7B), coupled to the one or moredeployable stores14. Thedeployable stores14 deployed from thepod structure10 are preferably eject launched. Eachdeployable store14 has an ejection launch envelope78 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) that is dependant on the characteristics of the deployable store's14store ejector device56, such as ejection force, stroke, end of stroke velocity, and other suitable characteristics. Once the plurality ofpod doors68 reach their fully open position86 (seeFIGS. 7C,8C,9C,10C), all thedeployable stores14 are clear of each other'sejection launch envelopes78.

FIG. 13A is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of thepod structure10 of the disclosure in anopen position58 and showing locations of the sealdoor mechanism assemblies70. There are preferably five (5) sealdoor mechanism assemblies70 per side that support each seal door76 (seeFIGS. 13B-13C).

FIG. 13B is an illustration of a close-up front view of one of the embodiments of a sealdoor mechanism assembly70 of the disclosure in a fullyclosed position84.FIG. 13C is an illustration of a close-up front view of the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 ofFIG. 13B in a fullyopen position86. As shown inFIGS. 13B-13C, each sealdoor mechanism assembly70 comprises acrank element88, an adjustablepull rod assembly90, at least two (2) drive links92, and at least one (1) seal door hinge fitting94. Thecrank element88 has afirst portion96aand asecond portion96b. Thefirst portion96aof thecrank element88 is coupled to the pod structure10 (seeFIG. 13B). The adjustablepull rod assembly90 couples thecrank element88 to themain door72. The drive links92 couple thesecond portion96bof thecrank element88 to the seal door hinge fitting94. The seal door hinge fitting94 is fixed to theseal door76 and is driven relative to themain door72. The motion of the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 is driven by the opening of themain door72. There is no need for a separate actuation system. As themain door72 is driven open through rotary actuators98 (seeFIG. 4) and door drive shafts100 (seeFIGS. 13B-13C), the geometry of the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 pushes theseal door76 away from themain door72. This allows for clearance independence82 (see alsoFIGS. 11A-11B) between a main door drive fitting102 (seeFIG. 13C) and a pod structure skin104 (seeFIG. 13C) in a fullyopen position86. In a fully closed position84 (seeFIG. 13B), the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 holds theseal door76 against thepod structure skin104 and provides for proper aerodynamic and RCS compatible sealing.

13D-13H are illustrations of front cross-sectional views showing various stages of operation of the sealdoor mechanism assembly70.FIG. 13D is an illustration of a front cross-sectional view of the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in the fullyclosed position84.FIGS. 13E,13F, and13G are illustrations of front cross-sectional views of the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in intermediateopen positions106a,106b,106c, respectively.FIG. 13H is an illustration of a front cross-sectional view of the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in the fullyopen position86.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of the pod showingvarious systems107 of thepod structure10 with the deployable stores removed. Thepod structure10 is preferably configured for coupling to one or more of adoor drive system108, apneumatic compressor system134, acontrol system112, and apower system114, preferably all housed within thepod structure10. Thesystems107 are preferably packaged into thepod structure10 to maximize clearance independence82 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) to thedeployable stores14 in their static position as well as theirejection launch envelopes78. Power is preferably drawn from theelectrical connector44c(seeFIG. 3A) to run thevarious systems107.

FIG. 4 shows thedoor drive system108. The adoor drive system108 is coupled to thepod structure10 and is configured to drive thepod door assembly18. Thedoor drive system108, as shown inFIG. 4, comprises anenergy storage device116, such as in the form of ahydraulic accumulator116aand drive trains120. Eachdrive train120 comprises a driveunit control valve122, adrive unit124, one or moredoor drive shafts100, one or morerotary actuators98, and astop module126. Thepod doors68 are driven independently of one another through separate drive trains120. Each of the drive trains120 are controlled by anelectronic control unit128, such as a Pod Electronic Control Unit (PECU). Thestop module126 may be included to hold thepod doors68 in a given position in the event of a mechanical or electrical failure of thedrive train120. Themain doors72 may carry a deployable store14 (seeFIG. 3D) which may increase the main doors'72 overall inertia. Themain door72 open time is preferably minimized to reduce induced aerodynamic drag and radar signature impacts on the aerial vehicle12 (seeFIGS. 1-2). The shortmain door72 open time and relatively highmain door72 inertia may create a significant energy requirement that theaerial vehicle12 cannot provide quickly. As a result, anenergy storage device116, such as, for example, ahydraulic accumulator116a, may be included in thedoor drive system108. Finally, each of thedrive units124 may include a manual drive input (not shown) to allow loading ofdeployable stores14 during unpowered ground operations.

FIG. 4 further shows thepneumatic compressor system134. Thepneumatic compressor system134 is coupled to thepod structure10 and is configured to deploy one or more deployable stores14 (seeFIG. 3D) out of thepod structure10. Thepneumatic compressor system134 comprises one or more separatestore ejector devices56, such as in the form of store ejector racks56a. For each store configuration62 (seeFIG. 7B), separatestore ejector devices56 may be installed. When a givendeployable store14 is to be used for a mission, itsstore ejector device56 may be installed in thepod structure10. The ability to configure thestore ejector devices56 allows for reduced overall weight of thepod structure10. Thepneumatic compressor system134 pressurizes external air at ambient conditions, and the pressurized air is stored for use in the event of ejection of thedeployable stores14. During a given flight, the air pressure may fluctuate with altitude. Thepneumatic compressor system134 may vent and re-pressurize as needed to maintain the 5000 psi (pounds per square inch) necessary for safe separation of thedeployable stores14. Thepneumatic compressor system134 may further comprise ahydraulic reservoir140 and ahydraulic pump142. Thepneumatic compressor system134 including a store ejector, as disclosed in U.S. Published Patent Application 2009/0100996 A1, to Jakubowski, Jr., et al., entitled “System and Method for In-Flight Adjustment of Store Ejector Gas Flow Orificing”, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, may be used with thepod structure10 disclosed herein.

As shown inFIG. 4, thecontrol system112 is coupled to thepod structure10 and is configured to control operation and deployment of the one or moredeployable stores14. Thecontrol system112 preferably comprises the electronic control unit128 (seeFIG. 4), such as in the form of a Pod Electronic Control Unit (PECU), a computer (not shown), and a logical interface (not shown) between the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 and a management system (not shown) on the aerial vehicle12 (seeFIG. 1) for managing the one or moredeployable stores14. The Pod Electronic Control Unit (PECU) controls internal functions of thepod structure10. The Pod Electronic Control Unit (PECU) and thepower system114 control the electrical functions of thepod structure10.

As shown inFIG. 4, thepower system114 is coupled to thepod structure10 and is configured to provide power to thepod structure10 and the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20. Thepower system114 comprises an electrical power system144 (seeFIG. 4), such as in the form of an electrical power supply. The electrical power supply may comprise an AC/DC converter that converts AC (alternating current) power of theaerial vehicle12 into DC (direct current) of thepod structure10 and the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 for use in thedoor drive system108, thepneumatic compressor system134, and the one or moredeployable stores14.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a top side perspective view of thepod structure10 of the disclosure in theclosed position28 and showing astructural assembly160.FIG. 6 shows theinterface elements44, such as in the form oflugs44a,swaybrace pads44b, andelectrical connector44c, the pivot post48a, theupper access doors50a, themain door72, theseal door76, thedrive units124, thestrongback portion154, a forwardupper beam162, aforward bulkhead164, anaft bulkhead166, anaft frame168, amain door beam170, a rotaryactuator module frame172, and a seal doormechanism assembly frame174.

FIGS. 7A-10E show various embodiments of thestore configurations62 in the configurableinterior volume16. However, thepod structure10 and the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 are not limited to thesestore configurations62 and othersuitable store configurations62 may be used. One or moredeployable stores14 are preferably mounted on the twomain doors72. Two or moredeployable stores14 are preferably mounted in a nested configuration within the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod structure10.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of a side view of one of the embodiments of thepod structure10 of the disclosure.FIG. 7B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines7B-7B ofFIG. 7A showing a first embodiment of astore configuration62ain the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod structure10 and showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyclosed position84.FIG. 7C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of thestore configuration62aofFIG. 7B showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyopen position86.FIG. 7D is an illustration of a top view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 7A showing thestore configuration62aofdeployable stores14 in phantom lines.FIG. 7E is an illustration of a side view of the pod structure ofFIG. 7D showing thestore configuration62aof thedeployable stores14 in phantom lines.FIGS. 7B-7E show thestore configuration62ahaving four (4)deployable stores14. As shown inFIG. 7C, the four (4)deployable stores14 may comprise two (2) door mounteddeployable stores14a, such as air-to-air missiles15a, attached to their respective store ejector racks56a, and two (2) upper mounteddeployable stores14b, such as air-to-ground bombs15b, attached to their respective store ejector racks56a.

FIG. 8A is an illustration of a side view of thepod structure10 of the disclosure similar to thepod structure10 ofFIG. 7A.FIG. 8B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines8B-8B ofFIG. 8A showing a second embodiment of astore configuration62bin the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod structure10 and showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyclosed position84.FIG. 8C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of thestore configuration62bofFIG. 8B showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyopen position86.FIG. 8D is an illustration of a top view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 8A showing thestore configuration62bofdeployable stores14 in phantom lines.FIG. 8E is an illustration of a side view of the pod structure ofFIG. 8D showing thestore configuration62bof thedeployable stores14 in phantom lines.FIGS. 8B-8E show thestore configuration62bhaving six (6)deployable stores14. As shown inFIG. 8C, the six (6)deployable stores14 may comprise two (2) door mounteddeployable stores14a, such as air-to-air missiles15a, attached to their respective store ejector racks56a, and four (4) upper mounteddeployable stores14b, such as small diameter air-to-ground bombs15c, attached to their respective store ejector racks56a.

FIG. 9A is an illustration of a side view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure similar to the pod structure ofFIGS. 7A and 8A.FIG. 9B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines9B-9B ofFIG. 9A showing a third embodiment of astore configuration62cin the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod structure10 and showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyclosed position84.FIG. 9C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the third embodiment of thestore configuration62cofFIG. 9B showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyopen position86.FIG. 9D is an illustration of a top view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 9A showing thestore configuration62cofdeployable stores14 in phantom lines.FIG. 9E is an illustration of a side view of the pod structure ofFIG. 9D showing thestore configuration62cof thedeployable stores14 in phantom lines.FIGS. 9B-9E show thestore configuration62chaving four (4)deployable stores14. As shown inFIG. 9C, the four (4)deployable stores14 may comprise two (2) door mounteddeployable stores14a, such as air-to-air missiles15a, attached to their respective store ejector racks56a, and two (2) upper mounteddeployable stores14b, such as air-to-air missiles15a, attached to their respective store ejector racks56a.

FIG. 10A is an illustration of a side view of one of the embodiments of a pod structure of the disclosure similar to the pod structure ofFIGS. 7A,8A, and9A.FIG. 10B is an illustration of a cross-sectional view taken alonglines10B-10B ofFIG. 10A showing a fourth embodiment of astore configuration62din the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod structure10 and showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyclosed position84.FIG. 10C is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of thestore configuration62dofFIG. 10B showing both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyopen position86.FIG. 10D is an illustration of a top view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 10A showing thestore configuration62dof thedeployable store14 in phantom lines.FIG. 10E is an illustration of a side view of thepod structure10 ofFIG. 10D showing thestore configuration62dof thedeployable store14 in phantom lines.FIGS. 10B-10E show thestore configuration62dhaving one (1)deployable store14. As shown inFIG. 10C, the one (1)deployable store14 may comprise one (1) upper mounteddeployable store14b, such as a large air-to-ground bomb15d, attached to its respectivestore ejector rack56a.

Thepod structure10 is designed such that the structural assembly160 (seeFIG. 6), the pod door assembly18 (seeFIGS. 4,13A), the door drive system108 (seeFIG. 4), the control system112 (seeFIG. 4), and the pneumatic compressor system134 (seeFIG. 4) are the same for allstore configurations62,62a-62d(seeFIGS. 7B-10B). Thesestore configurations62,62a-62d(seeFIGS. 7B-10B), also referred to as store loadouts, may be configured for air-to-ground only, air-to-air only, or a combination of the two depending on the requirements of a certain mission.Possible store configurations62,62a-62dmay comprise but are not limited to two (2) GBU-38/-54 500 lbs. air-to-ground bomb and two (2) AIM-120C air-to-air missiles (seeFIG. 7B); four (4) GBU-39 small diameter bombs and two (2) AIM-120C air-to-air missiles (seeFIG. 8B); four (4) AIM-120C air-to-air missiles (seeFIG. 9B); one (1) BLU-109 (or GBU-31) 2,000 lbs. air-to-ground bomb (seeFIG. 10B); one (1) GBU-32 1,000 lbs. air-to-ground bomb; one (1) extended range (ER) 2,000 lbs. air-to-ground bomb; one (1) joint standoff weapon (JSOW); one (1) joint standoff missile (JSM), or a combination thereof or anothersuitable store configuration62. As discussed above, thesame pod structure10 may be configured with any of thesestore configurations62. The only change to thepod structure10 will be to install the necessarystore ejector devices56 and other suitable store suspension equipment for a givendeployable store14.

FIG. 11A is an illustration thestore configuration62cofFIG. 9C with both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyopen position86 and showing anejection launch envelope78 in the form of a door mountedejection launch envelope78a.FIG. 11B is an illustration of the third embodiment of thestore configuration62cofFIG. 11A with both thepod door assembly18 and the sealdoor mechanism assembly70 in a fullyopen position86 and showing anejection launch envelope78 in the form of an upper mountedejection launch envelope78b.FIGS. 11A-11B show theclearance independence82 of theejection launch envelopes78 which is important for mission performance of thepod structure10. In the event that onestore ejector device56, such as in the form ofstore ejector rack56a, fails to eject a givendeployable store14, the otherdeployable stores14 within thepod structure10 may still be utilized. There are no trappeddeployable stores14 in thepod structure10.

FIGS. 12A-12C show variousejection launch envelopes78.FIG. 12A is an illustration of a front view of anejection launch envelope78 having aswaybrace element178 attached to anejector housing unit57 which is a standardejection launch envelope78c.FIG. 12B is an illustration of a front view of anejection launch envelope78 in the form of a constrained releaseejection launch envelope78dhavingswaybrace elements178 attached to anejector piston180 and theejector piston180 is then attached to theejector housing unit57. The constrained releaseejection launch envelope78dshown inFIG. 12B, is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,904,323, to Jakubowski, Jr., et al., entitled “Constrained Store Release System”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIG. 12C is an illustration ofejection launch envelopes78 in the form of an ejectionlaunch envelope overlay78ethat may be used in thepod structure10 of the disclosure. The ejectionlaunch envelope overlay78cprovides an increasedclearance independence82 at theouter mold line66. This constrained release envelope allows for tighter store stowed and deployment clearances and an small overall pod envelope.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a radar signature minimizing and induced aerodynamic drag minimizing, externally mountable, internally configurable store stowage and deployment system20 (seeFIG. 4) for anaerial vehicle12. The configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 comprises thepod structure10 which is externally mountable and internally configurable and configured for mounting to anaerial vehicle12. As discussed in detail above, thepod structure10 comprises apod housing30 which is externally mountable. Thepod housing30 comprises a predetermined pod housingcross-sectional configuration60 optimized to provide a configurableinterior volume16 accommodating multiple different store configurations62 (seeFIGS. 7A-10E). Thepod housing30 further comprises a predeterminedpod housing configuration32 having across-sectional configuration64 optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag. As discussed above, thepod structure10 further comprises apod door assembly18 integral with thepod housing30 and comprising a plurality ofpod doors68 and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies70 (seeFIGS. 13A-13C). Thepod structure10 is preferably optimized in kinematic operational combination of the plurality ofpod doors68 and sealdoor mechanism assemblies70 controlling ejection launch envelopes78 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B), where the sealdoor mechanism assemblies70 operationally linked to the plurality ofpod doors68 provide in a fully open position86 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) a clearance independence82 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B), such that if astore ejector device56 fails to deploy adeployable store14 coupled to thestore ejector device56, no trappeddeployable stores14 occur within thepod structure10.

The configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 further comprises a door drive system108 (seeFIG. 4), discussed above, coupled to thepod structure10 and configured to drive thepod door assembly18. The configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 further comprises a pneumatic compressor system134 (seeFIG. 4), discussed above, coupled to thepod structure10 and configured to deploy one or moredeployable stores14 out of thepod structure10. The configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 further comprises a control system112 (seeFIG. 4), discussed above, coupled to thepod structure10 and configured to control operation and deployment of the one or moredeployable stores14. The configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 further comprises a power system114 (seeFIG. 4), discussed above, coupled to thepod structure10 and configured to provide power to the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided amethod300 for minimizing radar signature and induced aerodynamic drag and for optimizing theconfigurable store volume16, such as an interior store volume17, of an externally mountable configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 on anaerial vehicle12.FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of themethod300 of the disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 15, themethod300 comprisesstep302 of providing an externally mountable, internally configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 having apod structure10. As discussed above, thepod structure10 comprises apod housing30 that is externally mountable. Thepod housing30 comprises a predetermined pod housingcross-sectional configuration60 optimized to provide a configurableinterior volume16 accommodating multiple different store configurations62 (seeFIGS. 7A-10E). Thepod housing30 further comprises a predeterminedpod housing configuration32 having across-sectional configuration64 optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag. As discussed above, thepod structure10 further comprises apod door assembly18 integral with thepod housing30 and comprising a plurality ofpod doors68 and one or more seal door mechanism assemblies70 (seeFIGS. 13A-13C). Thepod structure10 is preferably optimized in kinematic operational combination of the plurality ofpod doors68 and sealdoor mechanism assemblies70 controlling ejection launch envelopes78 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B). Thepod structure10 is preferably configured for coupling to one or more of adoor drive system108, apneumatic compressor system134, acontrol system112, and apower system114.

As shown inFIG. 15, themethod300 further comprises step304 of installing one or moredeployable stores14 and one or more correspondingstore ejector devices56 in the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod housing30, where the sealdoor mechanism assemblies70 operationally linked to the plurality ofpod doors68 provide in a fully open position86 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B) a clearance independence82 (seeFIGS. 11A-11B), such that if astore ejector device56 fails to deploy adeployable store14 coupled to thestore ejector device56, no trappeddeployable stores14 occur within thepod structure10.

As shown inFIG. 15, themethod300 further comprises step306 of mounting to an exterior portion11 (seeFIG. 1) of an aerial vehicle12 (seeFIG. 1) the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 with the one or moredeployable stores14 installed in thepod structure10. Themethod300 may further comprise reconfiguring the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod housing30 with adifferent store configuration62. Themethod300 may further comprise reusing the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20 with a sameaerial vehicle12 or a differentaerial vehicle12.

Prior to a given mission, thedeployable stores14 andstore ejector devices56 that are required for the mission are installed into thepod structure10. To accomplish this, the pod structure10 (seeFIG. 3C) may be hoisted onto an elevated fixture (not shown). Theupper access doors50aand the manual doordrive access doors50b(seeFIG. 3C) may be opened and may be manually driven to their open positions54 (seeFIG. 3C) showingopen position54 ofupper access doors50a). At this point the store ejector devices56 (seeFIG. 4) may be installed and prepared for upload of thedeployable stores14 through theupper access doors50a(seeFIG. 3C). Thedeployable stores14 are preferably positioned under thepod structure10 and hoisted onto the store ejector racks56 (seeFIG. 4). Thedeployable stores14 may then be safed and swaybraced. When all internal ground operations involving thepod structure10 are complete, the main doors72 (seeFIG. 3C) may be manually closed and thepod structure10 may be lowered onto a movable apparatus182 (seeFIG. 14), such as atransportation dolly182a.FIG. 14 is an illustration of a side perspective view of one of the embodiments of thepod structure10 loaded on themovable apparatus182, such as in the form of thetransportation dolly182a, in preparation for mounting of thepod structure10 to thepylon22, such as the centerline pylon22a, on anaerial vehicle12. Thetransportation dolly182ahas acradle portion186 to hold thepod structure10.

During its mission, theaerial vehicle12 may command release or deployment of thedeployable stores14 to the configurable store stowage and deployment system20 (seeFIG. 4). This command may preferably be relayed through the PECU (seeFIG. 4) to thevarious systems107. When the plurality ofpod doors68 are commanded to open, thedeployable stores14 to be ejected are powered-up. When the plurality ofpod doors68 and the sealdoor mechanism assemblies70 reach their fully open position86 (seeFIG. 13H), thestore ejector devices56 unlock and thedeployable stores14 are ejected. Once thedeployable stores14 are clear of thepod structure10 and the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20, the plurality ofpod doors68 doors are commanded to close and theaerial vehicle12 continues its mission.

In the event of adeployable store14 that is hung or in the event of failure of thestore ejector device56, the otherdeployable stores14 in thepod structure10 are still able to be employed.Deployable stores14 that are door mounteddeployable stores14a(seeFIG. 7C) rotate clear of the upper mounteddeployable stores14b(seeFIG. 7C). If either or both of the door mounteddeployable stores14aare unable to be ejected, the upper mounteddeployable stores14bcan still be deployed. Additionally, all of the upper mounteddeployable stores14bhavesufficient clearance independence82 to each other. Failure of anystore ejector device56 will not result in the otherdeployable stores14 being trapped in thepod structure10.

Disclosed embodiments of thepod structure10, the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20, andmethod300 provide numerous advantages over known devices, systems, and methods. Disclosed embodiments of thepod structure10, the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20, andmethod300 use an internallyconfigurable pod structure10 that provides the flexibility to use a variety of deployable stores (e.g., air-to-air, air-to-ground, etc.) and multipledifferent store configurations62 without having to change or construct a different pod structure with each internal reconfiguration. Thepod structure10 provides an exterior with a uniform outside structure and provides an interior with multiple internal store configurations. The structure, mechanisms, and systems are preferably the same regardless of the desired store configuration chosen.

In addition, disclosed embodiments of thepod structure10, the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20, andmethod300 provide greater flexibility to existing fleet aircraft. Thepod structure10 encloses thedeployable stores14 for radar signature reduction and can then be mounted on existingpylons22 ofaerial vehicles12 and other aircraft. This creates an externally carried internal weapons bay that can be easily installed onto and removed from existing fleet aircraft. The existing, high performance fleet aircraft may now be able to perform missions that require stealth capabilities. Thepod structure10 may be loaded on a strike aircraft or aerial vehicle when air defenses are active. When the need for stealth is no longer needed, thepod structure10 may be removed and the strike aircraft or aerial vehicle may be reconfigured to a typical external store carriage. Many of the stealthy and non-stealthy aircraft produced could use thepod structure10 for additional mission capability. Moreover, thepod structure10 may be used to increase thestore configuration62 or loadout of existing stealth aircraft.

In addition, disclosed embodiments of thepod structure10, the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20, andmethod300 preferably minimize or reduce a radar signature and induced aerodynamic drag and are optimized for internal placement of one or more deployable stores through configuration and optimal kinematic operation of a pod door assembly. Thedeployable stores14 are preferably stowed and carried in the configurableinterior volume16 of thepod structure10, which significantly reduces the impact to the radar signature of theaerial vehicle12 typically caused by existing external store carriage systems. Thepod structure10 has an outer mold line (OML)66 and applied coatings are preferably optimized to provide a configurable interior volume accommodating multiple different store configurations, and optimized to minimize a radar signature and to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag. TheOML66 of thepod structure10 may be designed to match the drag characteristics of a similarly sized external fuel tank (480 gallons), anddeployable stores14 carried within thepod structure10 preferably do not affect the aerodynamic performance of theaerial vehicle12.

Further, thedeployable stores14 are preferably arranged within the configurableinterior volume16 in a nestedconfiguration67, and due to thestore configuration62 and optimal kinematic operation of apod door assembly18, which includes a novel sealdoor mechanism assembly70, when thepod door assembly18 is opened, there issufficient clearance independence82 such that if astore ejector device56 fails to deploy adeployable store14 coupled to thestore ejector device56, no trappeddeployable stores14 occur within thepod structure10. Thus, thedeployable stores14 may all be separately ejected without interference from the otherdeployable stores14.

In addition, disclosed embodiments of thepod structure10, the configurable store stowage anddeployment system20, andmethod300 provide apod structure10 that is reusable and designed for more than only a one-time use.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. The embodiments described herein are meant to be illustrative and are not intended to be limiting or exhaustive. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims (19)

What is claimed is:

1. An externally mountable pod structure comprising:

an externally mountable pod housing comprising:

a configurable interior volume configured to contain one or more deployable stores;

a pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag; and,

a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and comprising a plurality of pod doors comprising at least two main doors and at least two seal doors, and further comprising one or more seal door mechanism assemblies, each seal door mechanism assembly coupling each main door to each seal door, and coupling each main door and each seal door to the pod structure, and when each seal door mechanism assembly is in a closed position, each seal door mechanism assembly holds each seal door against a pod structure skin, wherein the seal door mechanism assemblies operationally linked to the pod doors provide in an open position a clearance independence such that if a store ejector device fails to deploy the one or more deployable stores coupled to the store ejector device, no trapped deployable stores occur within the pod structure.

2. The pod structure ofclaim 1 wherein the one or more deployable stores comprise a missile, an aerodynamic missile, an air to air missile, an aerial bomb, an air to ground bomb, an extended range air to ground bomb, a small diameter bomb, a miniature aerial vehicle, an unmanned aerial vehicle, a drone, a joint standoff weapon, a joint standoff missile, a micro-satellite, a multi-payload airborne store comprising an expendable electronic counter measure dispenser and a tactical reconnaissance assembly, or a combination thereof.

3. The pod structure ofclaim 1 further comprising one or more interface elements coupled to an exterior of the pod structure and configured to interface and aid in external mounting of the pod structure to an exterior portion of an aerial vehicle.

4. The pod structure ofclaim 3 wherein one pod structure is mounted to a centerline pylon on the aerial vehicle.

5. The pod structure ofclaim 3 wherein one pod structure is mounted to a mid-board pylon under each of two wings of the aerial vehicle.

6. The pod structure ofclaim 3 further comprising a jettison element coupled to the pod structure and configured to jettison the pod structure from the aerial vehicle.

7. The pod structure ofclaim 1 wherein each seal door mechanism assembly comprises a crank element coupled to the pod structure, an adjustable pull rod assembly coupled between the crank element and a main door of the pod door assembly, at least one seal door hinge fitting coupled to a seal door of the pod door assembly, and at least two drive links coupling the crank element to the at least one seal door hinge fitting.

8. The pod structure ofclaim 1 wherein the multiple different store configurations comprise one or more deployable stores and one or more corresponding store ejector devices coupled to the one or more deployable stores.

9. The pod structure ofclaim 1 wherein the pod structure is configured for coupling to one or more of a door drive system, a pneumatic compressor system, a control system, and a power system.

10. A configurable store stowage and deployment system for an aerial vehicle, the system comprising:

an externally mountable, internally configurable pod structure configured for mounting to the aerial vehicle, the pod structure comprising:

an externally mountable pod housing comprising:

a configurable interior volume configured to contain one or more deployable stores;

a pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag; and,

a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and comprising a plurality of pod doors comprising at least two main doors and at least two seal doors, and further comprising one or more seal door mechanism assemblies, each seal door mechanism assembly coupling each main door to each seal door, and coupling each main door and each seal door to the pod structure, and when each seal door mechanism assembly is in a closed position, each seal door mechanism assembly holds each seal door against a pod structure skin, wherein the seal door mechanism assemblies operationally linked to the pod doors provide in an open position a clearance independence such that if a store ejector device fails to deploy the one or more deployable stores coupled to the store ejector device, no trapped deployable stores occur within the pod structure;

a door drive system coupled to the pod structure and configured to drive the pod door assembly;

a pneumatic compressor system coupled to the pod structure and configured to deploy one or more deployable stores out of the pod structure;

a control system coupled to the pod structure and configured to control operation and deployment of the one or more deployable stores; and,

a power system coupled to the pod structure and configured to provide power to the configurable store stowage and deployment system.

11. The system ofclaim 10 wherein the one or more deployable stores comprise a missile, an aerodynamic missile, an air to air missile, an aerial bomb, an air to ground bomb, an extended range air to ground bomb, a small diameter bomb, miniature aerial vehicle, an unmanned aerial vehicle, a drone, a joint standoff weapon, a joint standoff missile, a micro-satellite, a multi-payload airborne store comprising an expendable electronic counter measure dispenser and a tactical reconnaissance assembly, or a combination.

12. The system ofclaim 10 wherein the door drive system comprises an energy storage device, a manual drive input, and a drive train comprising a drive unit control valve, a drive unit, one or more door drive shafts, one or more rotary actuators, and a stop module.

13. The system ofclaim 10 wherein the pneumatic compressor system comprises a hydraulic reservoir and a hydraulic pump.

14. The system ofclaim 10 wherein the control system comprises an electronic control unit, a computer, and a logical interface, the control system being coupled between a management system on the aerial vehicle managing the one or more deployable stores and the configurable store stowage and deployment system.

15. The system ofclaim 10 wherein the power system comprises an electrical power system that converts AC (alternating current) power of the aerial vehicle into DC (direct current) of the configurable store stowage and deployment system for use in the door drive system, the pneumatic compressor system, and the one or more deployable stores.

16. A method for minimizing radar signature and induced aerodynamic drag and for optimizing an interior store volume of an externally mountable, internally configurable store stowage and deployment system on an aerial vehicle, the method comprising:

providing the externally mountable, internally configurable store stowage and deployment system having a pod structure, the pod structure comprising:

an externally mountable pod housing comprising:

a configurable interior volume configured to contain one or more deployable stores;

a pod housing configuration having a cross-sectional configuration optimized to minimize a radar signature and optimized to minimize an induced aerodynamic drag; and,

a pod door assembly integral with the pod housing and comprising a plurality of pod doors comprising at least two main doors and at least two seal doors, each main door being coupled to each respective seal door, and further comprising one or more seal door mechanism assemblies, each seal door mechanism assembly coupling each main door to each seal door, and coupling each main door and each seal door to the pod structure, and when each seal door mechanism assembly is in a closed position, each seal door mechanism assembly holds each seal door against a pod structure skin;

installing the one or more deployable stores and one or more corresponding store ejector devices in the configurable interior volume of the pod housing, where the seal door mechanism assemblies operationally linked to the pod doors provide in an open position a clearance independence such that if one store ejector device fails to deploy the one or more deployable stores coupled to the store ejector device, no trapped deployable stores occur within the pod structure; and,

mounting to an exterior portion of an aerial vehicle the configurable store stowage and deployment system with the one or more deployable stores installed in the pod structure.

17. The method ofclaim 16 further comprising reconfiguring the configurable interior volume of the pod housing with a different store configuration.

18. The method ofclaim 16 further comprising reusing the store stowage and deployment system with a same aerial vehicle or a different aerial vehicle.

19. The method ofclaim 16 wherein the pod structure is configured for coupling to one or more of a door drive system, an ejector device pneumatic system, a control system, and a power system.

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